Microsoft Excel is introducing a new AI-powered feature called “COPILOT” that can automatically fill spreadsheet cells. This function allows users to input natural language prompts to generate summaries, classify information, and create tables. For instance, feedback about a product can be quickly classified using a simple formula. The COPILOT function is built on OpenAI’s gpt-4.1-mini AI model and follows Microsoft’s previous experiments with AI in Excel. Users can integrate COPILOT with other Excel functions, and Microsoft assures that data remains confidential and is not used for AI training. However, the function cannot access external data and is limited to 100 calculations every 10 minutes. Microsoft advises against using COPILOT for numerical calculations in critical scenarios due to the potential for incorrect responses. Currently available to Beta Channel users with a Microsoft 365 Copilot license, the feature is set to evolve with future updates, including potential web access capabilities.
Is Microsoft Excel’s new Copilot AI the future of spreadsheet automation?
